Cirque Nouvelle – A New Evolution of Circus swings into Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall with plenty of energy, colourful costumes and impressive circus artistry. While the show promises thrills for all ages, it’s clear this production is designed with younger audiences firmly in mind, making it an ideal family outing during the school holidays.
From the moment the lights go down, children are completely captivated. There are plenty of laughs, audience participation and larger-than-life characters that keep little ones engaged between the big circus acts. Adults will still appreciate the skill on display, but the humour and presentation lean heavily towards entertaining the kids.
The undeniable stars of the evening are Rebecca and James Capener. Their partner acrobatic routines are nothing short of extraordinary, built on absolute trust, flawless timing and incredible strength. Watching them balance, throw and catch one another with such precision is genuinely breathtaking, with several moments that had the audience holding their breath before erupting into applause. Their chemistry shines through every trick, making their performances feel effortless despite the immense difficulty.
Rebecca also delivers one of the night’s standout moments with a mesmerising fire performance. Combining confidence, elegance and a fearless stage presence, she commands the audience’s attention from start to finish. The fire act adds a different energy to the show and proves why she is one of the production’s biggest highlights.
Steve Capener keeps the show moving as the charismatic Ringmaster, effortlessly engaging the younger audience with his humour and energy. Simon Crawley impresses with his incredible hand balancing and nerve-wracking Cyr wheel routine, while Vladislav Fefelov delivers graceful aerial performances that showcase remarkable strength and control. Elysha Atwell and Michelle Screaigh add elegance through their aerial work and dance, and Leah Walker’s vibrant choreography helps tie the production together with plenty of colour and movement. Together, the ensemble creates a polished and entertaining spectacle that celebrates the many disciplines of modern circus.
While Cirque Nouvelle may not have the scale or theatrical storytelling of some larger contemporary circus productions, it succeeds in creating an entertaining, fast-moving experience that never outstays its welcome. The show focuses on fun rather than emotional depth, and for its target audience, that’s exactly what works.
Children around the theatre were laughing, cheering and eagerly waiting to see what impossible feat would come next—a testament to the show’s ability to spark imagination and wonder. For families looking for an accessible introduction to live circus, Cirque Nouvelle delivers plenty of excitement.
★★★★☆ (4/5)
All images supplied.
The Fame Reporter 